Residual or third-hand smoke on surfaces gets “progressively more toxic” over time and is just as dangerous as smoke directly inhaled into the lungs, according to research by University of California scientists. It is particularly dangerous to children.

Third-hand Smoke: Growing Awareness of Health Hazard

We know that smoking and secondhand smoke exposure are harmful, but what about “third-hand smoke”? This is a relatively new term used to describe the residual contamination from tobacco smoke that lingers in rooms long after smoking stops and remains on our clothes after we leave a smoky place. It may seem merely like an offensive smell, but it is also indicative of the presence of tobacco toxins.

Third-hand smoke consists of the tobacco residue from cigarettes, cigars, and other tobacco products that is left behind after smoking and builds up on surfaces and furnishings. Tobacco smoke is composed of numerous types of gasses and particulate matter, including carcinogens and heavy metals, like arsenic, lead, and cyanide. Sticky, highly toxic particulates, like nicotine, can cling to walls and ceilings. Gases can be absorbed into carpets, draperies, and other upholsteries. A 2002 study found that these toxic brews can then reemit back into the air and recombine to form harmful compounds that remain at high levels long after smoking has stopped occurring.

Residual cigarette smoke removal

In order to remove the toxic chemicals left behind from smoking a complete cleaning of the interior needs to be performed. Using soap and hot water alone to clean will not do a good job. Many people suggest that in order to remove the third-hand smoke you must remove carpeting, clean and paint the walls (up to 3 coats of paint) remove all drapery, and then it might be good.

EcoVive has a better way. With the use of “new” technology we can safe home owners a lot of money when dealing with third-hand smoke removal. We start by cleaning all surfaces with a professional cleaner to remove the tar and then we use Ozone “shock” treatments to kill the odor molecules in the home.

If you would like to find out more about our service, please visit our website or give us a call.